Excessive Weight Loss In Older Dogs

8 Causes of Sudden Weight Loss in Dogs

...umes. If your dog loses more than 10% of his total weight, this should be a reason for worry.
1. Diabetes
Diabetes is caused by insulin deficit or the incapacity of the body to absorb the sugar from the blood.
Diabetes will cause the dog to have increased appetite, but despite this, he will still lose a lot of weight.
Senior and obese dogs are more prone to developing diabetes; however ...

Pet Owner's Crash Course in Canine Cushing's Disease

...adult boxer dog, and the same dog several years later after he had been diagnosed with Cushing's disease. That is my dog, Dempsey. Click on a photo to compare enlarged images. One can observe changes that include muscle atrophy, coat dullness and loss of color, thinning hair especially over the ribcage, thin wrinkled skin, and pot belly. He weighs approximately the same in the first two photos, but the redistribution of w...

Geeks On Pets : Increased Thirst and Urination in Dogs

...eakness, vomiting and depression. Hyperparathyroidism symptoms include listlessness, weakness, intolerance to exercise, poor appetite, shivering, loss of muscle mass, vomiting, constipation and stiff gait, according to _link_.
Prevention/Solution
Older dogs are more susceptible to diseases that cause increased thirst and urination. Even healthy dogs can become ill during their twilight years. Taking the dog for regular check...

10 year old boxer - unexplained weight loss, increased

...ur best for our pet to find out if there is something we can do. I will tell you that many treatable diseases (like intestinal inflammation/IBD, some hepatic diseases) can be treated. And if we find cancer.... which would be very sad indeed, at least we have an answer.
Don't give up. Give your doggie that chance by working with your vet to find an answer.
Good luck, and thanks for letting us know how things were going.
Dr. Sandy
Th...

How to Help Your Overweight Dog Lose Weight

... is good (or too high), she is not as “hungry” as you think she is.
Instead, you have a very clever dog who is good at manipulating you.
Finally, if she needs to lose weight, you MUST increase her exercise. Double the amount of time she is currently walking every day, and I guarantee you she will lose weight.
the Healthy Six pack
Thanks for awesome and more informative tips it help me a lot to all _link_’s perfect.You...

Dog Illness Warning Signs - Medical Treatment for Dogs

...t you should be able to pick up her increased intake by paying careful attention to what comes out the other end. She'll be producing much larger amounts of urine and have to go outside more often. She may also start having accidents in the house.
Coat
A healthy dog has a thick, shiny coat. A dull coat or one with rough, dry, or bald patches is a sign that something's not right. The problem could...

Increased Appetite in Dogs

...affect the functioning of the pancreas.
A blood count will allow your veterinarian to examine the blood for the presence of infectious agents, and will also show whether your pet has developed anemia (low blood iron), or any inflammation in the vessels. Absence of these conditions may point to whether the increased appetite is due to a behavioral problem, or to a physical problem.
Your veterinarian may suggest urine analysis to evalu...

Weight Loss For Dogs : 5 Ways To Help Your Canine Go From

...could be detrimental its overall health. Minimize the number of treats you give each day and use other forms of appraisal such as a petting or playing. Popular dog treats like bully or pizzle sticks are a major source of excess calories for your dog. In a study , American and Canadian researchers from the Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University and the University ...

Weight Loss in Dogs - The Web's #1 Source of Pet Information

...ty of the body to use sugar or glucose in the diet
Hyperthyroidism, where increased metabolism occurs secondary to increased out put of thyroid hormone
Excessive Nutrient Loss
Protein losing enteropathy (PLE), a group of diseases characterized by excessive loss of proteins into the gastrointestinal tract
Protein losing nephropathies, which involve protein loss through the kidneys
Chronic hemorrhaging from the skin or intestin...

Caring for Older Dogs and Cats - 2nd Chance

...on of the outer portion of the adrenal glands is quite common in older pets. The signs of this disease are due to the effects of too much cortisone on the body. The underlying problem usually lies within the pituitary gland of the brain. Portions of the pituitary gland are responsible for producing a hormone ( ACTH ) that stimulates the pet's adrenal glands to produce cortis...

Dog Diseases and Symptoms : A to Z

...terinarian
DVM
There are a number of different health conditions that can affect dogs. Here's an extensive list of all the major dog diseases and symptoms.
There are a ton of different afflictions that can take hold of your dog. Whether it is their heart, liver, kidneys, ears, eyes, teeth, or something else, your dog can suffer from health complications in much the same way people can. For a better understanding of t...

Geeks On Pets : Canine Diseases Causing Weight Loss

...o a chemical panel and urinalysis. The values given by these tests will help your vet diagnose what is going on in your dog's body.
Tooth Problems
A loss of weight can be due to something as simple as difficulty eating because of painful teeth. Your vet will examine your dog's teeth to see if there are any decayed or loose teeth that might be causing your dog pain when eating....

Excessive Panting in Dogs - Causes of Dog Panting

...s a common cause of excessive panting in dogs. If your dog has been out in the sun for a long time, and he starts panting and drooling, he may be suffering from heat stroke which is potentially life-threatening. Other symptoms associated with heat stroke includes thick saliva, vomiting, and a bright red tongue. The rectal temperature can go up to 104°F to 110°F. Heat stroke is an emergency and requires...

Weight Gain in Dogs : Why Is My Dog Gaining Weight

...cle
When to See a Vet
Plump babies, pudgy puppies -- humans seem drawn to chubby things. But when dogs and their people grow up, the health effects of being overweight can be far from cute.
What are the dangers of weight gain in dogs? What are some common causes of weight gain ? And when is it time to talk to a vet about your overweight pet?
Recommended Related to Dogs
Routine Vaccinations for Puppies and Dogs
Lucky for us, there are va...

Canine Diabetes - Diabetes Issues in Dogs

...rst and urination: This happens because the huge quantity of sugar in the bloodstream spills into the urine and pulls water out of the bloodstream along with it, thereby causing increased urine production and urination. Increased drinking is the body’s way of trying to compensate for increased water loss through urination. Due to the high levels of bacteria-attracting sugar in the urine, urinary tract infections are a rout...

Weight Loss In Older Dogs - What Causes It and When To Worry

...bout - not panicked, but concerned.
That means it's also time to get Fido to your veterinarian for a complete check-up so that you can find out what's causing it to happen.
With most health problems, there's more than one symptom - and as weight loss in older dogs can be a sign of several different conditions or diseases, - it's the OTHER symptoms that often give your ...

Rapid weight loss in dogs - causes, treatment, diet, body

...cal examination and history, a plan can then be formulated for the next step in the diagnostic process. Often a blood, urine or stool sample may be collected to assess your pet’s internal organs and general health.
Depending on the condition of your pet and the results from any initial diagnostic tests, further treatment and/or tests may be recommended. This could include admission into hospital for intravenous fluids and appropriate ...

Weight Gain In Older Dogs - What Causes It and When To Worry

...is something that you always need to take seriously.
Common Causes Of Rapid Weight Gain In Senior Dogs
Older dogs have an above-average tendency to gain too much weight, and in seniors this is more likely to be caused by an illness or health problem, than it is in younger dogs.
Even when the cause of the weight gain is benign, being too heavy puts a lot of extra strain on their already tired bodies and that's why it's something to kee...

Weight Loss Causes in Dogs and Cats

...s
Rapid weight loss is often a sign of illness.
Symptoms include low energy levels, low resistance to infection, lethargy, anddull coats that grow in splotches.
Recommendedproducts to help with sudden weight loss in dogs and cats
Pets with dental disease
Pets with dental disease often lose weight because eating is painful. In addition, bacteria in their mouths spread over the body and cause disease in the kidneys, liver...

Senior dog health - when it is time to see the vet

...ment available that may help some dogs. Common signs (and treatment available) are outlined in this this article .
Hair loss, itchy skin - This can occur at any age, and should not be ignored. Dogs can do a lot of damage to their skin by licking, scratching, and chewing , so the sooner the dog is examined, the better.
This list isn't all-inclusive - If your dog is "not himself or herself," then it is time for a check up at the veterinar...

Treating Cushing's Disease in Dogs

...f Cushing's Disease
Cushing's disease typically occurs in middle-aged to older dogs. The disease develops slowly and the early signs are not always noticed. Symptoms in dogs include
increased thirst
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Treating Cushing's Disease
Most veterinarians treat both adrenal- and pituitary-dependent Cushing's disease with medication. The only way to "cure" Cushing's dise...

Unwanted Weight Loss in Dogs, What to Look for, Causes and

...og's daily routine has been established should you move on to further investigation.
What to Look For
Weight loss is weight loss. When it represents a threat to your dog's health, however, it is much more of a concern. Of course, any time significant weight loss is mentioned, a thorough physical exam is called for.
For your current purposes, though, let's focus on your dog's immediate is...

Weight Gain in Dogs : Why Is My Dog Gaining Weight

...enal-suppressing drugs or surgery to remove an adrenal tumor.
An underactive thyroid ( hypothyroidism ) is a common problem in dogs and can also be behind your dog’s weight gain. Certain breeds, including Doberman pinschers and golden retrievers, are more prone to hypothyroidism . Symptoms may include lethargy, hair loss , weakness , infection, and less tolerance for exercise. Hypothyroidism is easily treated with ho...

Common Diseases of Older Dogs

... diseases are listed in the table below. Most of the diseases are discussed in detail in separate articles, just one click away.
Common Diseases in Older Dogs
Signs and Symptoms of Disease
Cancer
Abnormal swellings that persist or continue to grow
Sores that do not heal
Weight loss
Bleeding or discharge from any body opening
Offensive odor
Hesitation to exercise or loss of stamina
Difficulty breathing, urinating, or def...

Excessive Panting in Dogs Causes - My Pet Articles

...rinking in dogs can also be signs of greater issues.
Also, excessive panting in dogs can happen when a dog is choking, poisoned, or injured. Has the dog just finished a meal? If the dog is choking, the heavy panting will more than likely be accompanied by hacking or an attempt to vomit. Has the dog just been outside, where it may have ingested something toxic? If this is possible, look for other signals such as shaking or he...

Older dog losing weight? - Yahoo Answers

... is just making her sluggish and she doesn't feel like eating. Also, good quality protein, like chicken and eggs, satisfies the appetite better than carbohydrates, so a dog can eat less and lose weight. So can people--this is the foundation of the infamous Atkin's diet, but there are health risks associated with not getting the proper balance of nutrients, so be careful. Also, I don...

Canine Diseases Causing Weight Loss - The Daily Puppy

... in the dog’s urine. This inability to convert glucose causes the dog to experience excessive thirst and weight loss, even if the dog retains a normal appetite and continues to eat normally. As diabetes grows progressively worse, the dog may experience an enlarged liver or impaired liver function that results in ketoacidosis, the body breaking down fat to fuel the body instead of using glucose. Eventu...

Weight loss in old dog? - Yahoo Answers

.... You don't say how old your dog is, but if in the 14 or older range, I would imagine there is cancer somewhere inside.
Not too much can be done about it with senior dogs, so just enjoy her, watch for any signs of pain (which can be treated), and be grateful you've had her as long as you have.
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Dog’s Excessive Drinking Is Concern

...vels in the bloodstream. The glucose tends to pull additional water into the bloodstream, and out through the kidneys, leading to increased water intake to replace losses.
Renal failure occurs when the kidneys lose their water concentrating ability, and excess water is lost through the urine, leading to increased water intake. Often, there is exposure to some kind of toxin (such as antifreeze)...

Senior dog care - Dogtime - The place for dog breeds, pet

...of blood. The numbers and types of these cells help to diagnose anemia, infections, and leukemia. It also helps your veterinarian monitor your dog’s response to some medical treatments.
Urinalysis
Laboratory analysis of urine is used to detect the presence of specific substances that normally do not appear in urine, such as blood, protein, white blood cells, or sugars. Measur...

Excessive Licking and Hair Loss in an Older Cat : Dr. Jeff

...sic case has a fast heart rate (over 160 per minute) and a rapidly growing appetite in the face of weight loss. Many vomit often. Some also develop hyperactivity, which can manifest as excessive licking and hair loss.
Ask your veterinarian to do a thyroid test (called a T4) along with serum chemistries, a blood count and urinalysis. If your kitty is hyperthyroid you can give her Tapazole tablets. Long term she’ll do best with sur...

Weight Loss - Abnormal in Dogs - VCA Animal Hospitals

...ic demand associated with excessive physical activity, prolonged exposure to cold, hyperthyroidism, pregnancy or lactation, fever, infection, inflammation and cancer.
What can be done to treat my dog's weight loss?
Treatment will be determined by the specific cause of your dog's weight loss. Once a specific diagnosis is made, treatment to resolve the problem or improve your dog's quality of life will be immediately initiated.
What is ...

Common Health Conditions in Senior Dogs

...run urine and blood tests to diagnose it, and can then place your dog on drugs that will help him feel much better. Sometimes, surgery is recommended.
Cognitive Dysfunction
Cognitive dysfunction, somewhat similar to human Alzheimer's disease, is seen in some older dogs. Signs include aimless wandering, loss of house-breaking and training, confusion and disorientation. Your veterinar...

Why Do Older Dogs Shed Big Clumps of Hair? - Dog Care

...he elbows, legs, belly and back. Hair loss from canine Cushing's disease can be so dramatic that your dog may only have hair on his tail and head. If you notice these patterns of shedding, talk to your vet to diagnose and treat your pet.
Diet
Not only do older dogs have different nutritional needs than young pups, they're more likely to experience difficulty when eating. For example, an agi...

Polydipsia and Polyuria in Dogs

...polyuria and polydipsia, and the underlying cause of these symptoms must be determined before appropriate treatment can be initiated.
The occurrence of polyuria and polydipsia usually does not constitute an emergency, but several potentially serious diseases (such as diabetes mellitus, kidney failure, liver failure or high blood calcium caused by a malignancy) may be the underlying cause of the symptoms. Hypercalc...

Caring for an Elderly Dog - Whole Dog Journal

...ting in. Ask your veterinarian to evaluate your dog and feel his joints, looking for pain in the joints, and consider x-rays to definitively pinpoint the problem.
From there, come up with a holistic plan to add the proper supplements, modalities such as massage and acupuncture, and, if necessary, prescription pain medication to give your dog relief. Dr. Wynn’s hierarchy of intervent...